Richard Hudson

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Michael Verardo. As the Representative from North Carolina's 9th District, I have the honor of representing Fort Bragg. I am devastated, but grateful. It is the honor of my life to represent the incredible men and women of our Airborne and Special Operation's community, including my friend Michael. To his wife Sarah and their precious three girls, Renee and I are so deeply sorry for this loss, and we were honored to stand together last week at Arlington National Cemetery. We lost a true American hero with the passing of our friend Sergeant Michael Verardo. An infantryman in the 82nd Airborne Division, Mike was severely wounded by an IED in Afghanistan that nearly took his life in 2010. He fought for his life and he fought to stay with his family, resulting in more than 120 surgeries and years of painful recovery. Most of us would look at that day in 2010 as the worst day of our lives. Michael called it his ``Alive Day.'' He chose to see every day after that as a gift. Another chance to love Sarah, to be a dad to his three little girls, to cheer on his New England Patriots (nobody is perfect), to enjoy his dogs, and to live in the country he believed was worth fighting for. Michael did more than survive. Together with Sarah, he turned his own suffering into service. Their work with the Independence Fund and their advocacy in Washington and around the country changed lives. Presidents listened. Cabinet Secretaries listened. Members of Congress listened. Michael and Sarah helped shift how our Nation thinks about the most severely wounded veterans and the families who are right there with them. His story advanced care at the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of War, evident by the presence of Secretary Collins and Secretary Hegseth at his interment ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery on November 19th. Back home in North Carolina, Michael was a leader in his church and community. He showed up for Veterans. He competed in adaptive sports. And through it all, he was first and foremost a loving father and husband. Sarah has said something I believe every American needs to hear: when it comes to our military and our veterans, everything should be purple. There should be nothing political in how we honor them, how we care for them, or how we remember them. Michael had that rare ability to make people on both sides of the aisle want to do better for our troops and their families. Sarah called it the honor of her lifetime to be Michael's wife and caregiver. All of us have watched her live that out with strength and grace. Sarah, is a true inspiration. In a moment like this, when answers are hard to find, I am reminded of Proverbs 3:5: ``Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.'' She has walked that verse, day after day. Michael's daughters should know their dad is a hero. Not only because of that tragic day in Afghanistan, but because of how he lived every day afterward. They will always be able to say, ``My dad was Sergeant Michael Verardo,'' and our country will know exactly what that means. For the rest of us, the way forward is clear. We must honor Michael's legacy by caring for the heroes he fought beside and their families. We must keep working to deliver real care and real support for those who come home bearing the scars of war. And we must especially take care of those who come home with hidden scars. We must remember that we stand together as Americans, united in gratitude for men like my friend Michael. May God bless the Verardo family. May God bless the memory of Sergeant Michael Verardo. May God bless the United States of America.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the newly dedicated Charters of Freedom setting in Carthage, North Carolina. This is the newest of over 70 settings spread across 17 different states and is sponsored by the nonprofit educational organization, Foundation Forward Inc. Charters of Freedom settings are based on the rotunda of the National Archives and contain replicas of the founding documents of the United States. Each setting includes bronze replicas of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, with newer displays adding key amendments regarding civil rights. In showcasing the foundational documents of our country, these settings offer an important educational opportunity for visitors. In addition, a time capsule will be buried at the setting, set to be opened in 2087, on the 300th anniversary of the Constitution. As such, this Charters of Freedom setting will serve as a reminder of the most important milestones in the history of the United States for years to come. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Charters of Freedom setting located in Carthage, North Carolina, and its mission to promote education, civics, and the preservation of American history.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Warrant Officer Garrett Illerbrunn for his dedicated service in the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division. Chief Warrant Officer Illerbrunn, a native of North Dakota, with a love of the outdoors and dedication to farming, started his service in the U.S. military in 2005 and is now retiring after more than twenty years of service. Garrett served honorably for those twenty years, as an Apache AH64 crew chief before becoming a pilot and officer. He is retiring as Chief Warrant Officer 4, where he provided leadership and support to units from the battalion to the corps and beyond. At the end of 2023, Garrett suffered a life-altering injury to his skull during a drone attack in Iraq. He's accomplished great strides in his recovery with his family by his side, even learning sign language from his son Tucker, and I look forward to seeing further successes in his future. Garrett has many accomplishments in his time of service, including being awarded the Purple Heart Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal and many more. But it's clear his most beautiful life accomplishments have been marrying his wife, Lorna, and becoming a dad to Tucker. I hope Garrett celebrates with a Miller High Life and Jimmy John's and I'll be sure to do the same to honor his service today. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring Chief Warrant Officer Garrett Illerbrunn for his dedicated service to our great country. I wish him the happiest retirement with his family.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart. I ask this body to join me in praying for the family of Iryna Zarutska, who was brutally murdered on the Charlotte light rail by a violent, repeat offender who never should have been on the streets in the first place. Iryna was a 23-year-old woman who fled the war in Ukraine just to meet her horrific fate at the hands of a dangerous criminal who was repeatedly released from jail over and over on serious, dangerous charges. Iryna had a bright future ahead of her. Sadly, she will never see her home country again. Gone is her chance for a new future here in America. It didn't have to happen. This criminal had a rap sheet going back nearly two decades, including armed robbery and threats of violence. Yet, because of irresponsible policies by our former Governor Roy Cooper's administration, this brutal thug was set free and allowed to terrorize our community again and again. Our people deserve commonsense leadership that puts victims first and keeps dangerous criminals behind bars. I will keep fighting to make sure violent offenders stay off the street and that our communities are safe for every family. I will pray for Iryna's family.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the groundbreaking first expansion phase at my alma mater's, The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Jerry Richardson Stadium. It is a privilege to honor UNC Charlotte and the 49ers community on this occasion that represents progress, pride, and great potential. On August 27, 2025, the ceremony for the first expansion phase at Jerry Richardson Stadium, home of the UNC Charlotte 49ers football team, will commence. The renovations will include a new west tower that will house team dining, recruiting space, and a community event area. This groundbreaking will support Charlotte's growing role as a college football and sports tourism hub, as well as lay the foundation for the next generation of milestones, championship seasons, and moments to inspire pride across our entire state and region. The renovations will significantly enhance fans' experiences by offering premium seating, including suites, club seating, boxes, ledge seating, and an east and west deck outdoor patio space. The beginning stages of the new project will increase capacity from just over 15,000 to over 18,000, with the potential to expand to 21,000 in future phases. These renovations will provide UNC Charlotte with new opportunities to host bowl games, high school championships, concerts, and community events. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the groundbreaking for the first expansion phase of Jerry Richardson Stadium at my alma mater, UNC Charlotte. I look forward to the positive impact these renovations will have on the UNC Charlotte football program, student-athletes, fans, and the entire community. I am proud to be associated with a university that is shaping North Carolina's future through education, innovation, and now, world-class athletic facilities.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my friend, Mr. Donnie Oldham, for his induction into the Carolinas Associated General Contractors of America Hall of Fame. As President of Sanford Contractors Incorporated since 1989, and team member since 1975, Mr. Oldham has had a lasting impact on the company and the wider construction industry through his many years of leadership, sacrifice, and commitment to safety. Mr. Oldham has contributed immensely to support North Carolinians through his volunteer work and career. Mr. Oldham was awarded the Man of the Year by the Lee County Community Foundation for his volunteer work and philanthropy. He has also served as a board member for the Sanford Area Growth Alliance, Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Carolina, and Lee County Education Foundation, among others. In his career, Mr. Oldham's company's involvement in a variety of projects, including critical infrastructure, commercial buildings, site development, and utility construction have been critical for the development of North Carolina. Mr. Donnie Oldham embodies the mission of Sanford Contractors to deliver the highest quality projects that exceed expectations while ensuring the safety and professionalism of team members. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring Mr. Donnie Oldham on his induction to the Carolinas AGC Hall of Fame.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 3rd annual Peach Week, taking place in my home county of Moore, North Carolina, this week. Peach week is a kickoff to summer fun but also shows the importance of peaches in our agriculture industry and as a staple of our state. This year, Peach Week will run from July 18 to July 27, featuring a variety of events. Due to its popularity, Peach Week has garnered a record number of nearly 40 participating restaurants, specialty outlets, and food trucks taking part in the Peach Week promotions. Attendees will have the opportunity to try a variety of peach-themed dishes ranging from breakfast, appetizers, entrees, desserts, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. In addition to these promotions, ticketed and complementary events will be available, such as the Run Your Peach Off 5k, Putt n' Peach mini golf, and the Peachgrass festival at the Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities. To complement the activities, farmers markets from Southern Pines, Vass, and Carthage will also be offering peaches and peach products during the celebration. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the 3rd annual Peach Week, in North Carolina's 9th District, as a fun and exciting week celebrating the peach, a major agricultural product of my home state of North Carolina and a symbol of summertime.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 196.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my friend, Ms. Betty Doster, for her dedicated service to The University of North Carolina at Charlotte, my alma mater, as Special Assistant to the Chancellor for External Relations and Partnerships. After nearly fifteen years in this important position, Betty announced her retirement, with her last day being Monday, June 30, 2025. Throughout her many years of service, Betty played an immeasurable role in the growth of UNC Charlotte into an R1 research institution. Even though she is a proud UNC Chapel Hill alum, Betty's passion for UNC Charlotte was enormous. Her efforts significantly contributed to the growing influence of our universjty across the state of North Carolina, around the country and around the world. It was a pleasure to work with Betty on many of these initiatives over the years. As Special Assistant to the Chancellor for External Relations and Partnerships, Betty worked closely with federal, state, and local officials, as well as economic development partners to secure important public investments for the University. Betty's efforts helped acquire major student-focused initiatives, including authorization for the University Recreation Center, expansion of the Collegiate Recovery Program, and support for UNC Charlotte's esports initiative. It is my honor to take this opportunity to recognize Ms. Betty Doster for her incredible service to UNC Charlotte, and her significant impact on the University. While I'll miss working with Betty and discussing the 49ers, I wish her all the best in her next adventure and hope she will be able to enjoy more time with friends and family. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring my friend, Ms. Betty Doster, for her nearly 15 years of dedicated service to UNC Charlotte and the lasting impact she made on the university and everyone she met along the way.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the strong-willed commitment Richard Koch holds for the people of Cabarrus County, North Carolina. Mr. Koch served as the Cabarrus County Attorney for 19 years alongside serving as the County Planning and Zoning Attorney for an impressive 32 years. Mr. Koch earned his undergraduate degree from Washington and Lee University, where he was a member of the swimming team. He then went on to earn a Juris Doctor degree from Wake Forest Law School, and he has been a licensed attorney for 47 years. Mr. Koch currently serves as both the Administrative Law Judge for North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health, and the Harrisburg Town Attorney, which he has been doing for 37 and 32 years, respectively. Serving on two boards, the Historic Cabarrus Board and the Cannon School Board, there is no doubt that Mr. Koch is dedicated to his county. Over the past 37 years, Mr, Koch has exemplified high levels personal sacrifice and commitment to Cabarrus County. The magnitude of his efforts and dedication cannot be overstated. Renee and I offer our most heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Koch for the decades of loyal service he gave to Cabarrus County. We wish him continued success and happiness as he moves forward on to his next adventure. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring Mr. Richard Koch for the lifetime of service he dedicated to his community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mike Downs for a lifetime of dedication and commitment to the people of Cabarrus County. Having served as deputy county manager for 8 years and going on to serve as county manager for another 14 years, he was the longest standing county manager in Cabarrus County history. Mr. Downs received his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Business Administration Management and Operations in 1983 from Pfeiffer College (now University) in Misenheimer, North Carolina, where he also played both varsity basketball and baseball. He was inducted into the Pfeiffer University Hall of fame for both sports in 2017. Beginning his career in 1986 as a zoning inspector, Mr. Downs has spent nearly four decades serving his community. He is known for his strong leadership and management skills. Mike has served on a multitude of boards and volunteered for many charitable and service organizations. Among them, The Cannon Foundation Advisory Board, Greater Cabarrus Foundation. Cabarrus Rotary Club, Pfeiffer Falcon Club and Legacy Club. His service has been honored with the Executive Level Leadership Award, Leadership Cabarrus Alumni Impact Award, and Hometown Hero Award to recognize his service, to just name a few. He is also a Shriner and has served in many capacities with them. Over the course of Mr. Downs' career, he demonstrated his hard work ethic, commitment to service, and dedication to his county. He undoubtably is leaving Cabarrus County in a better place than where he found it. Renee and I offer our most heartfelt appreciation to Mike for his decades of service; we wish him well and hope he enjoys this new chapter where he can spend more time with his wife, Beth, along with his children and grandchildren. I am confident that I speak for the entire community when I thank him for all he has accomplished. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring Mr. Mike Downs for a lifetime of extraordinary service to his community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained in my district at Fort Bragg and missed a vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 160; YEA on Roll Call No. 161; YEA on Roll Call No. 162; and YEA on Roll Call No. 163.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Greg Murphy, Executive Vice President and General Counsel of North America's largest steel producer and recycler, Nucor Corporation. Tomorrow, June 7, 2025, Greg will retire from Nucor after serving the past decade as head of the company's legal department and overseeing Nucor's public affairs, communications, and environmental functions. A native of Western New York, Greg spent his career in Charlotte after receiving his undergraduate degree from Canisius College and law degree from the University of Michigan. Greg had the honor of clerking for one of North Carolina's most well-known federal judges, the Honorable James McMillan, followed by a quarter century practicing law with Moore & Van Allen, where Greg led the Litigation Practice Group and served on the Executive Committee. Greg's success would not have been possible without the love and support of his wife, Marcy, and their children, Sean and Alexandra. In addition to enjoying time with family, golf will play a prominent role in Greg's retirement. He is not only an avid golfer, but Greg was also once named the Southern Piedmont Conference Golf Coach of the Year, another accomplishment showing his dedication to the things he loves. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring Mr. Greg Murphy for his outstanding career with Nucor and leadership in North Carolina's legal community. I wish him the best in his retirement.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize North Carolina native and NASCAR legend, Greg Biffle, for his courageous and selfless contributions to the Hurricane Helene recovery effort. In the wake of the chaos and destruction brought about by Hurricane Helene, Mr. Biffle utilized his personal helicopter and piloting skills to assist in emergency rescue efforts. Without hesitation, Mr. Biffle put himself in harm's way by flying into dangerous and unpredictable areas of North Carolina to evacuate stranded individuals, deliver supplies, and support first responders. Mr. Biffle's decisive actions directly contributed to relief efforts and brought aid to those in need. It is my honor to take this opportunity to recognize Mr. Greg Biffle for risking his personal safety to help those in need. In a time of great divide, Mr. Biffle's actions are a reminder of the unwavering American spirit that exists throughout the great state of North Carolina, and the country. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Mr. Greg Biffle for his selfless actions in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, the voting machine did not register the vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 146.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 250th anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration, or what we call the Meck Dec, that took place on May 20, 2025. A pivotal moment in the history of both the United States and North Carolina, when brave North Carolinians--united by their common pursuit of freedom--became the very first Americans to declare independence from the British. The Mecklenburg Declaration is the earliest known document to formally declare independence and paved the way for the establishment of the United States and our great democracy. Signed on May 20, 1775, the Mecklenburg Declaration marked one of North Carolina's most consequential actions during the Revolutionary period. The history of the Mecklenburg Declaration not only prompted independence for our entire nation but showed the passion of the citizens of our state. This passion led British Commander General Cornwallis to describe Charlotte as ``a hornet's nest of rebellion.'' After American victories at the battles of Lexington and Concord, Mecklenburg delegates gathered to draft the document severing ties with the British Crown. In the same spirit, our community continues to stand for liberty, justice and freedom. Sadly, all that has survived are copies based on oral recollections from some of the original delegates after an 1800 fire. Despite the physical paper's destruction, our great state commemorates this on our flag and through celebrations every year. I am proud of our heritage and our forefathers' stand for freedom I will always strive to represent our state with the same passion as those leaders so long ago. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the 250th anniversary of the Mecklenburg Declaration that took place on May 20, to honor the Mecklenburg Declaration and its historical anniversary for both the United States and the great state of North Carolina. I welcome all of my colleagues to join us in celebration of 250 years of freedom, thanks to the great North Carolinians who risked it all.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my friend, Mr. Louis DeJoy, for his dedicated service as the 75th Postmaster General of the United States. Appointed in June 2020, Mr. DeJoy helped navigate the United States Postal Service through the uncertainty brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under his direction, the U.S. Postal Service maintained its essential mission of delivering mail and packages to the American people, keeping family and friends connected in this challenging time. In addition to navigating the pandemic, Mr. DeJoy was responsible for implementing important reforms and cost-saving measures with the goal of making the U.S. Postal Service more efficient. In pursuit of these goals, Mr. DeJoy secured $50 billion dollars from Congress for USPS restructuring, as well as sought assistance from the Department of Government Efficiency to streamline the USPS and successfully improve the inner workings of the agency. A very successful businessman and expert in logistics, Mr. DeJoy was able to bring all stakeholders to the table. His honest, straightforward approach gained the trust of postal employees, union representatives and lawmakers. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize Mr. DeJoy for his service to the American people, and his steadfast leadership of the U.S. Postal Service marked by a return to common sense and increased productivity, and success navigating a global pandemic. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring Mr. Louis DeJoy for his excellent service as the 75th Postmaster General of the United States. We wish him, his wife Aldona, and the family all the best in the future.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart to honor the life and memory of the late Faison Kuester, Jr., my friend who passed away peacefully at the age of 79. A proud patriot, veteran, and fourth-generation Charlottean, he attended Myers Park High School, my alma mater, and UNC-Chapel Hill. After graduation, Faison enlisted in the U.S. Army and served honorably as a first lieutenant in the 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam war. As a platoon leader, he earned a Bronze Star for his service to our country. After returning to Charlotte, Faison began a career in commercial real estate, founded his own firm, and raised a family. Like his father and grandfather, Faison was dedicated to serving his Charlotte community. He served as chairman of the Civil Service Board, continuing his family's legacy of giving back. Faison will forever be remembered as a kind, gracious friend and neighbor to all, always leading with his strong and abiding faith. Mr. Speaker, our hearts and prayers are with Faison's beloved wife, Carol, their three children, and nine grandchildren during this difficult time.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John N. Ogburn, III for his decades of exceptional service to the people of Randolph County, North Carolina. A lifelong resident of North Carolina, he received his undergraduate degree from North Carolina State University and went on to receive his Master of Public Affairs from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Over the years, Mr. Ogburn has played an instrumental role in shaping the history of our community. He became Assistant City Manager of Archdale in 1990 and retires today after over two decades as the Asheboro City Manager. He has dedicated himself to making our community a better place and has been involved in the Asheboro Randolph Chamber of Commerce, Asheboro Blue Comets Youth Football Association, the NCSU Alumni Association and the Wolfpack Club. He is a member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd and serves on the UNCG Graduate School Advisory Board. Renee and I offer our most heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Ogburn for his years of exemplary service. I know I speak for the entire community in wishing him continued success and happiness as he moves on to this next chapter. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring John N. Ogburn for his extraordinary career of service to his community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Steve Morris for a lifetime of dedication and commitment to the people of Cabarrus County. Having served for 12 years on the Board of Commissioners, and as Chairman, he has given his heart to this community for over a decade. I have seen his extraordinary leadership firsthand and can say that Cabarrus County is better off today due in large part to his efforts. First elected in 2012, Chairman Morris has been a champion for public safety, mental health services, education, and economic stability. Since his election, Cabarrus County has grown from a population of 185,000 to around 245,000 people; added at least 10 new public schools; received over $3.5 billion in capital investments, including approximately $2 billion from Eli Lilly; and seen good paying jobs grow by more than 7,000. He also oversaw the creation of new municipal facilities, including a courthouse, EMS headquarters, and the appropriately named Stephen M. Morris Behavioral Health Center, which broke ground in November 2024. Chairman Morris retires as one of the longest serving members of the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners in history. Over the course of his career, he has extended the highest level of personal sacrifice and has dedicated himself fully to the service of others. Renee and I offer our most heartfelt appreciation to Chairman Morris for his years of exemplary service. I know I speak for the entire community in wishing him continued success and happiness as he moves on to his next great adventure. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring my friend, Chairman Morris, for his extraordinary career of service to his community.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained and missed a vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 512.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate my friend and colleague, Chair of the Rules Committee, Dr. Michael Burgess, on his retirement from the House of Representatives after a 22-year career representing the folks of Texas' 26th congressional district. With his background as an OB-GYN doctor and the most senior medical doctor in the House, Dr. Burgess has been an important voice on every important healthcare debate during his two decades of service in the House. I've had the pleasure of working closely with Dr. Burgess on the Energy and Commerce Committee for a long time, and whenever a bill related to healthcare was being debated or discussed, I knew I could count on Dr. Burgess to provide clarity and insight from an experienced physician's perspective. Dr. Burgess and I share a passion for our military servicemembers and for many Congresses have introduced the MISSION Zero initiative together to improve trauma care between the military and civilians. Seeing this bill signed into law was a major achievement together and I intend to ensure this program continues in his legacy. He has accomplished some truly amazing things during his time here including lowering drug costs, reigning in government waste, cutting taxes, and expanding healthcare options for folks around the country. Since being nominated as Chairman of the Rules Committee, Dr. Burgess has worked tirelessly to ensure good legislation makes it to the floor and has been instrumental in our accomplishments in the 118th Congress. I would like to thank Dr. Burgess for his unwavering commitment to conservative principles and his sound leadership. On a personal note, I appreciate his friendship and counsel over the years. While his colleagues and the people in his district are sure to miss Dr. Burgess in Congress, I know he is looking forward to spending more time with his family back home in his beloved Texas. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating my friend Dr. Michael Burgess on his retirement from the House of Representatives after 22 years of exemplary service to the people of Texas' 26th congressional district.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1101, the Lumbee Fairness Act, which rights a historic wrong and provides long overdue Federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe. My family goes back seven generations in Robeson County, which is the home of the Lumbee people, and I represent many Lumbees in Hoke and Cumberland Counties. The Lumbees have deep cultural roots and traditions in our State and have made significant contributions since North Carolina fully recognized the Tribe in 1885. Though Congress recognized the Lumbee Tribe in 1956, they were discriminated against like no other Tribe and tragically denied the same protections and resources enjoyed by every other Federal Tribe. Since I came to Congress, I proudly championed Federal recognition. Yet, despite broad bipartisan support, Congress has failed to send this legislation to the President. This is unacceptable, and it is past time we right this wrong once and for all. I thank my friend, Representative David Rouzer, for leading this must-pass legislation to give the Lumbee people the long overdue Federal recognition they rightfully deserve. I also thank Chairman Westerman and his incredible hardworking staff. I urge my colleagues to join us in support of this legislation.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mr. Jack Nance, Executive Director of the Carolinas Golf Association (CGA) after 32 years of dedicated service in this role. Jack is a proud North Carolina native, he was born and raised in Clinton, North Carolina and attended high school and college in our great state. Jack is an avid golfer and has been a huge fan of the sport ever since his college days where he played golf at Wake Forrest and even served as the assistant coach for the golf team following his graduation. Throughout his tenure at the CGA, Jack has seen the organization grow to over 700 affiliated clubs that represent over 200,000 members. We will always appreciate the dedication Jack has shown to ensuring that golfers in the Carolinas have a great sporting experience and North Carolina maintains its reputation of the best state for golf. Jack has worked for the CGA since 1984 and has served as a rules official, communications point of contact and a course rater, before finally serving as Executive Director, a position he has held since 1992. Jack even qualified for the 1980 US Amateur as a player. Nobody knows our courses quite like Jack and we will certainly miss his unique perspective. We know Jack is looking forward to being able to spend more time with his wife DeAnn and his two daughters Caroline and Liza. While we are sad to see Jack go, we wish him and his family the best as he begins this new and exciting chapter in his life. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in congratulating Mr. Jack Nance on his well-earned retirement after 32 years of serving as the Executive Director for the CGA.

Mr. HUDSON

Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate my friend and colleague, Chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, on her retirement from the House of Representatives after a 20-year career representing the folks of Washington's 5th congressional district. I've had the pleasure of working closely with Cathy on the Energy and Commerce Committee for a long time and together we've been able to accomplish some amazing things for the American people. I've admired her determination and strength to get our priorities across the finish line and she has never stopped working tirelessly on behalf of the people she was elected to serve. What I most admire about Cathy is her dedication to her family and the Down Syndrome community. Over the years I've had the privilege of becoming friends with her son Cole, who has inspired me and is one of the reasons I'm so passionate about supporting Cathy's work on behalf of the Down Syndrome community. She has been a tireless champion for the community and left a lasting legacy with her accomplishments on behalf of the people who are differently-abled, so they can live their lives to their full potential with no barriers or bias or obstacles standing in their way. While her colleagues will miss her dearly, we wish Cathy and her family all the best as she begins this next chapter of her life. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating my friend Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers on her retirement from the House of Representatives after 20 years of service to the people of Washington's 5th congressional district.